BREAKING NEWS: Texas Tech Red Raiders Legend Zach Kittley Returns as Co-Owner
In a monumental turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the college football community and Red Raiders nation, Texas Tech University has officially announced the return of a legendary figure to its athletic family. Zach Kittley, the iconic former player and revered offensive mastermind, is set to return to Texas Tech in 2025—not as a coach, but in a groundbreaking new role as co-owner of the Texas Tech Red Raiders athletic enterprise.
This landmark decision marks a historic moment for the program, as it is the first time a former player will assume such a high-level position of leadership and ownership within the university’s athletic operations. Kittley, widely considered one of the most influential figures in the modern history of Red Raiders football, is expected to play a transformative role in guiding the future direction of the program both on and off the field.
Zach Kittley first rose to prominence as the Red Raiders’ offensive coordinator, where his high-octane, innovative style of play turned Texas Tech into one of the most electrifying offenses in the nation. Before his coaching accolades, he had deep roots in the university, growing up around the Red Raiders legacy—his father, Wes Kittley, has been the university’s esteemed track and field coach for years. Zach Kittley’s knowledge of the game, passion for the school, and deep connections within the Lubbock community made him a fan favorite and a respected leader in college football circles.
After stints at Houston Baptist and Western Kentucky, Kittley returned to Texas Tech in 2022 as the offensive coordinator. Under his leadership, the Red Raiders posted some of their most statistically dominant seasons in recent memory, reigniting fan excitement and putting the program back on the national radar. While many expected his trajectory to continue through the coaching ranks, his move into co-ownership signals a bold, new chapter—one that reimagines the potential role of former players in collegiate sports administration.
In a statement released by the university, Texas Tech’s athletic director expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for Kittley’s return: “Zach has always embodied the Red Raider spirit—relentless, innovative, and committed to excellence. His contributions as a player and coach were invaluable, and we believe his vision for the future of Texas Tech athletics will be even more impactful in his new role as co-owner.”
As co-owner, Kittley is expected to focus on strategic growth initiatives, fundraising, facility improvements, alumni relations, and player development programs. His involvement is also seen as a catalyst for potential NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) partnerships, recruitment enhancement, and overall modernization of the athletic department’s infrastructure.
Fans have taken to social media to celebrate the announcement, with hashtags like #KittleyReturns and #RedRaiderRevival trending shortly after the news broke. Alumni and current players alike have voiced their support, praising the university’s commitment to honoring its legacy while taking innovative steps toward the future.
For Zach Kittley, this new chapter is about more than just business—it’s personal. “Texas Tech isn’t just where I coached or played—it’s home,” Kittley said in his official statement. “I’m honored to be back in this new role and look forward to building something truly special with the Red Raider family.”
As Texas Tech looks to establish itself as a dominant force in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics, the return of a beloved icon like Zach Kittley as co-owner offers not only a nod to the past but a bold step toward the future. With Kittley’s leadership, innovation, and unwavering dedication to Texas Tech, the Red Raiders appear poised to enter a new golden era of success.
